Supply Chain Now

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter welcome Bobby Holland, Vice President/Director of Freight Business Analytics at U.S. Bank, and Heather Shilt, Director, Global Logistics at Fortive, to unpack Q3 2025 findings from the U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index, one of the industry’s most referenced trucking indicators, informed by tens of billions in transactions. The panel explores why volumes are down even as costs rise, how tariffs and manufacturing softness are reshaping regional performance, and where rate pressure and capacity tightness are showing up first.

Together, they dig into nine key takeaways from the national and regional views (West, Southwest, Midwest, Northeast, Southeast): most significant sequential gains in the West in four years, persistent softness in the Southwest, and mixed signals elsewhere as consumer demand, housing starts, and labor dynamics tug the market in different directions. From shipper playbooks (carrier-mix depth, lane-level cost vigilance, and alternate modes) to practical watch-outs for Q4 and early 2026, this data-driven conversation equips operators to trend, plan, and pressure-test their assumptions in a volatile environment.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(06:26) Freight market overview

(07:09) National freight insights

(16:17) Regional analysis: West

(20:22) Regional analysis: Southwest

(22:05) Southwest region analysis

(22:25) Impact of construction activity on freight

(23:52) Midwest region insights

(26:16) Northeast region overview

(29:13) Southeast region trends

(33:06) Global supply chain leadership

(35:27) Freight market predictions

(41:10) Housing starts and freight impact

Additional Links & Resources:

• Download the complete Q3 2025 U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: https://freight.usbank.com
• Learn more about U.S. Bank: https://www.usbank.com
• Learn more about Fortive: https://www.fortive.com
• Connect with Bobby Holland: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-holland-4a9355/
• Connect with Heather Shilt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-shilt-4a867430/
• Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/about
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Inside the Cargo Theft Surge: Insights & Predictions for 2026: https://bit.ly/4oVAsms
• WEBINAR- Inside Outdoor Cap’s Warehouse: How Voice Picking Elevated Daily Operations: https://bit.ly/49m4D1z
• WEBINAR- Supply Chain Strength: Strategies that Deliver in any Economy: https://bit.ly/4hqTnTH

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Kim Reuter, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/analysis-us-bank-freight-payment-index-q3-2025-1508

The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton and special guest co-host Tevon E. Taylor welcome Lori Boyer, Head of Content Marketing at EasyPost, to unpack the post-purchase experience (tracking, claims, and returns) and how owning these moments drives loyalty and repeat purchase. Drawing on fresh consumer research, Lori explains why reliability and flexibility now outrank “free,” why brands, not carriers, are held responsible for delivery outcomes, and how proactive notifications can double as high-performing marketing touchpoints.

Together, the panel dives into practical plays shippers can run today: cutting “where is my order?” calls with automated, branded tracking; removing friction with one-click USPS claims filing; and turning adverse events into brand-building recoveries. They also explore modern return realities. From fraud and “keep-the-item” policies to sustainability pressures, and how to reduce returns at the source with better product information, sizing guidance, and segmentation. If you ship anything in 2025, this fast-moving conversation is a field guide to protecting your brand promise after the buy button.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(02:38) Lori's European adventure

(06:32) Insights on customer experience

(20:59) The importance of tracking and notifications

(25:59) Impact of WiMo on service costs

(26:38) Importance of tracking and claims

(27:57) Managing claims efficiently

(28:30) Automating claims with EasyPost

(32:21) The significance of returns

(32:41) Challenges and strategies for returns

(37:05) International returns and fraud

(40:50) Optimizing customer experience

(42:38) Resources and key takeaways

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Lori Boyer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loribboyer/
• Learn more about EasyPost: https://www.easypost.com/
• Check out Lori’s podcast, Unboxing Logistics: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cH1A13IAYFV7fmMpcd7p
• Check out What the WISMO? How to Stop Visibility Gaps from Stealing Your Revenue: https://www.easypost.com/guides/stop-visibility-gaps/
• Check out Staying on Track: The Ultimate Package Tracking Guide: https://www.easypost.com/guides/complete-package-tracking-guide/
• Connect with Tevon Taylor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tevontaylor/
• Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/about
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Inside the Cargo Theft Surge: Insights & Predictions for 2026: https://bit.ly/4oVAsms
• WEBINAR- Inside Outdoor Cap’s Warehouse: How Voice Picking Elevated Daily Operations: https://bit.ly/49m4D1z
• WEBINAR- Supply Chain Strength: Strategies that Deliver in any Economy: https://bit.ly/4hqTnTH

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Tevon Taylor, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/decoding-loyalty-latest-research-reveals-repeat-buyers-1507

The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is your supply chain ready for the holidays? Today, hosts Scott Luton and Karin Bursa break down the biggest challenges shaping global supply networks this season — from tariff uncertainty and inflationary pressures to shifting consumer expectations and the ongoing semiconductor shortage. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by OMP!

Scott and Karin are joined by Chris Butler, CEO of National Tree Company, to explore how consumer behavior continues to evolve, including the accelerating move toward online shopping and the rising demand for fast, reliable delivery during peak holiday periods.

Together, they discuss:

• The ripple effects of tariffs and inflation on pricing, availability, and inventory management
• How the semiconductor crisis is reshaping automotive supply chains worldwide
• The growing role of artificial intelligence in improving supply chain agility and decision-making
• Strategies for maintaining resilience and responsiveness in a volatile market

Listen in as we unpack what’s driving today’s supply chain challenges — and how leaders can stay ahead of the curve this holiday season and beyond.

Additional Links & Resources:

• With That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS-9Nov2025
• OMP: https://omp.com/
• U.S. Bank Freight Payment Index: https://bit.ly/scn-us-bank
• Manifest 2026: https://bit.ly/ManifestSCN
• NAM 3Q Survey: https://bit.ly/NAMsurvey3Q
• OMP eBook: Making AI Work for You: From Explainable to Agentic: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0pgvWp0
• National Tree Company:https://shop.nationaltree.com/
• Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisbutler101/
• Gartner Survey Shows 49% of Organizations Lack Confidence in Future Manufacturing Strategy: https://gtnr.it/4hUQfQr
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Inside the Cargo Theft Surge: Insights & Predictions for 2026: https://bit.ly/4oVAsms
• WEBINAR- Inside Outdoor Cap’s Warehouse: How Voice Picking Elevated Daily Operations: https://bit.ly/49m4D1z
• WEBINAR- Supply Chain Strength: Strategies that Deliver in any Economy: https://bit.ly/4hqTnTH

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Karin Bursa, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-insights-holiday-consumer-behavior-1506

The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton teams up with special guest host Ward Richmond (Vice Chairman, Colliers) to dig into the state of industrial real estate with Brandon Page. EVP, Head of Leasing & Customer Solutions and Glenn Wylie (Senior Managing Director, East Region at Link Logistics. The conversation frames what a “balanced market” looks like in 2025 (tight small-bay infill vs. more options at bulk) while unpacking the demand stack from e-commerce and nearshoring to data center spillovers and the renewed importance of 3PL flexibility.

The group gets practical on bonded warehouses and FTZs (where and why they fit), market dynamics across the Southeast, Texas, and Phoenix, and how power availability and automation readiness are influencing site decisions. You’ll also hear how Link Logistics uses data and AI, from rent-modeling insights to faster decision support across an infill-centric portfolio (with most assets within an hour of dense populations). The throughline: customers want flexibility, optimization, and speed, and the teams that blend relationships with good data will find the next wave of opportunity first.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(00:40) Scott welcomes Ward, Brandon, and Glenn

(03:17) Baseball stories and quick warm-ups

(05:40) Tailgate favorites: Publix chicken, BBQ, cheeseburgers

(07:28) Ward on music and podcast projects

(08:37) Supply chain real estate 101 with Link Logistics

(12:57) Market shifts since 2022: slower, smarter leasing

(14:37) Demand drivers: e-commerce, nearshoring, power

(24:20) 3PL growth, manufacturing, and data centers

(27:25) Bonded warehouses and FTZ setup

(30:55) Flexibility and cost pressures

(32:14) Customer priorities: optimization and power

(38:57) Regional trends: Southeast, Houston, Phoenix

(46:05) AI and tech driving efficiency

(53:21) Common myths about industrial real estate

(58:16) Takeaways on balance and relationships

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Brandon Page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-j-page-385395236/
• Connect with Glenn Wylie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenn-wylie-233105203/
• Learn more about Link Logistics: https://www.linklogistics.com
• Connect with Ward Richmond: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wardrichmond/
• Ward Richmond’s official website: https://www.truckinon.com/
• Learn more about Colliers: https://www.colliers.com/
• Learn more about our hosts: https://supplychainnow.com/about
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Inside the Cargo Theft Surge: Insights & Predictions for 2026: https://bit.ly/4oVAsms
• WEBINAR- Inside Outdoor Cap’s Warehouse: How Voice Picking Elevated Daily Operations: https://bit.ly/49m4D1z
• WEBINAR- Supply Chain Strength: Strategies that Deliver in any Economy: https://bit.ly/4hqTnTH

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/portfolio-behind-5-us-gdp-link-logistics-whats-driving-demand-1505

The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, host Scott Luton and special guest co-host Maria Villablanca welcome Dr. Dinesh Davè, Professor & Director of Supply Chain Management at Appalachian State University, and Evan Junker, Chief Growth Officer at SPARQ360, to unpack insights from the 2025 Supply Chain Trends and Attitudes Report. The annual study, conducted by Appalachian State and SPARQ360, surveys hundreds of supply chain managers across the U.S. to reveal where leaders are investing, from AI and visibility platforms to sustainability and risk management.

Together, the panel discusses how familiarity and adoption of AI are rising, why the “ambition-action gap” still challenges sustainability progress, and what’s driving executives to balance cost efficiency, resilience, and environmental responsibility. They also explore how partnerships, collaboration, and customer-centered priorities are emerging as the new competitive advantage. Packed with practical insights and forward-looking data, this conversation offers a clear snapshot of where supply chain strategy is heading in 2025 and beyond.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(01:08) Survey overview and key findings

(02:47) Fun warmup: favorite food and drink spots

(05:52) Appalachian State University supply chain program

(07:37) SPARQ360 and its role in the supply chain

(13:30) AI in supply chain: priorities and challenges

(19:03) Broader technology investments and priorities

(24:21) Data transformation and security

(24:37) Sustainability initiatives and drivers

(26:09) Political and regulatory impacts

(26:52) Statistical analysis and findings

(27:48) The ambition-action gap

(28:38) Technology’s role in sustainability

(29:01) Tariffs and geopolitical shifts

(33:16) Survey surprises and observations

(42:00) Future directions and international expansion

(43:10) Connecting with the panel

Resources:

• Connect with Dr. Dinesh Davè: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-dinesh-dave-a85b6713/
• Learn more about Appalachian State University: https://www.appstate.edu/academics/majors/id/supply-chain-management
• Connect with Evan Junker: www.linkedin.com/in/evanjunker
• Learn more about SPARQ360: https://luna-resume.com/
• Connect with Maria Villablanca: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariavillablanca/
• Explore Maria’s website: https://www.mariavillablanca.com/
• Learn more about Transform Talks: https://futureinsights.org/transform-talks/
• Read the 2025 Supply Chain Trends and Attitudes Report: https://sparq360.com/trendsandattitudes/
• Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Inside the Cargo Theft Surge: Insights & Predictions for 2026: https://bit.ly/4oVAsms
• WEBINAR- Inside Outdoor Cap’s Warehouse: How Voice Picking Elevated Daily Operations: https://bit.ly/49m4D1z
• WEBINAR- Supply Chain Strength: Strategies that Deliver in any Economy: https://bit.ly/4hqTnTH

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Maria Villablanca and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/survey-results-2025-trends-attitudes-report-supply-chain-sustainability-1504

The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is freight auditing really dead? Today, we dive into a more frictionless approach promoting collaboration between carriers and customers, maintaining calm amidst the chaos, how to quantify uncertainty, and so much more. Welcome to The Buzz, powered by OMP!

Hosts Scott Luton and Jake Barr are joined by special guest Shannon Vaillancourt, CEO of RateLinx to discuss the top news and headlines in supply chain news today including:

• The priorities of Chief Supply Chain Officers striving to enhance operational efficiency and employee capability
• The implications of the recent trade agreement between the United States and China, assessing its potential impact on the agricultural sector, particularly regarding soybean imports
• The alarming rise of package theft, colloquially known as “porch piracy,” and the measures consumers are taking in response to this growing issue
• Technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence, are transforming supply chain processes, allowing for greater predictive analytics and operational efficiencies

Listen in as we share valuable insights and actionable strategies that can be implemented in your own supply chain operations today.

Additional Links & Resources:

• With That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS25Oct2025
• OMP: https://omp.com/
• EasyPost Guard: https://bit.ly/EPGuard
• US to lower China tariffs as part of trade war truce: https://bit.ly/US-China-deal
• Uncertainty is impacting the global economy. But how is it measured? https://bit.ly/UncertaintyMetrics
• Americans lost $15.7 billion in stolen packages last year: survey: https://bit.ly/PorchPiratesBoom
• OMP eBook: Making AI Work for You: From Explainable to Agentic: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0pgvWp0
• RateLinx: https://www.ratelinx.com/
• Shannon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-vaillancourt/
• Karin's Post: https://bit.ly/KarinPanelBlog
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Inside the Cargo Theft Surge: Insights & Predictions for 2026: https://bit.ly/4oVAsms
• WEBINAR- Inside Outdoor Cap’s Warehouse: How Voice Picking Elevated Daily Operations: https://bit.ly/49m4D1z
• WEBINAR- Supply Chain Strength: Strategies that Deliver in any Economy: https://bit.ly/4hqTnTH

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Jake Barr, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-how-quantify-uncertainty-global-business-1503

The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, hosts Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love celebrate Manufacturing Day 2025 with special guest Danny Gonzales, Founder and CEO of IndustrialSage and Optimum Productions. Together, they explore how manufacturing has evolved from being seen as dirty or outdated into a modern, tech-driven industry that fuels global economies and everyday life.

Danny shares the vision behind American Makers, his new documentary series that spotlights the people and stories powering America’s manufacturing future. He talks about how storytelling helps shift perceptions, inspire future talent, and show the impact of manufacturing on communities across the country. Together, they explore workforce challenges, reshoring trends, energy access, and how meaning and purpose can help address labor shortages.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(01:28) Celebrating Manufacturing Day 2025

(03:23) Fun warmup question

(06:52) Danny's journey into manufacturing

(10:03) Mary Kate's manufacturing story

(12:23) Current state of US manufacturing

(17:54) Global manufacturing insights

(21:38) Interesting manufacturing factoids

(24:20) Semiconductors and nearshoring trends

(25:17) Skepticism about significant investments

(25:54) Foreign direct investment in Georgia

(26:37) Industrial robot installations and economic contributions

(28:04) Labor challenges in manufacturing

(30:32) Factory floor of the future

(32:39) Energy access and nuclear power

(36:10) National Supply Chain Day

(37:10) American Makers: celebrating industry stories

Additional Links & Resources

• Connect with Danny Gonzales: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannygonzales/
• Learn more about Industrial Sage: https://www.industrialsage.com/
• Watch Industrial Sage on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IndustrialSage
• Connect with Mary Kate Love: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marykatelove/
• Check out National Supply Chain Day: https://supplychainnow.com/nscd/
• Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Inside Outdoor Cap’s Warehouse: How Voice Picking Elevated Daily Operations: https://bit.ly/49m4D1z
• WEBINAR- Supply Chain Strength: Strategies that Deliver in any Economy: https://bit.ly/4hqTnTH

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/celebrating-manufacturing-day-2025-1502

The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes Alex Pillow, Senior Director of Partnerships & Acquisitions (Corporates & Government Unit) at Moody’s and host of the podcast KYC Decoded, for a practical breakdown of how “know your customer” (KYC), third-party due diligence, and third-party risk management map directly onto modern supply chain realities. Alex demystifies integrated risk assessment, connects KYC practices to supplier onboarding and end-tier visibility, and shares where orchestration logic and high-quality data (master data management, beneficial ownership, and external risk signals) meaningfully cut time-to-decision.

Alex explores today’s most active threat patterns: organized fraud at scale, cyber supply-chain intrusions, and freight fraud, and how to translate visibility into action with clear mitigation pathways. Alex also spotlights lessons from investigative journalism (think massive crypto heists executed via vendor compromises), a “good team vs. bad team” mindset for program design, and why continuous improvement or the “infinite game” is the only sustainable posture for risk leaders. If you’re building or leveling up TPRM and supply chain risk programs, this episode is a masterclass in combining people, data, and tooling to get ahead of disruption.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(01:27) Meet Alex Pillow from Moody's

(02:14) Alex's podcast KYC Decoded and personal insights

(04:49) Marathon training and personal goals

(07:56) Understanding Moody's and integrated risk assessment

(12:46) What is KYC and why is it important?

(17:04) Parallels between KYC and supply chain management

(26:09) Fraud and cybersecurity risks

(31:59) Combating financial crime and corruption

(34:08) Challenges faced by regulators and practitioners

(35:34) The role of vendors and consultants

(36:22) The Infinite Game: A call to action

(39:09) Mindset shift for risk mitigation

(42:48) The importance of a risk-based approach

(47:54) Building a successful digital transformation toolkit

(55:27) The impact of cybercrime on supply chains

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Alex Pillow: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-pillow/
• Check out the KYC Decoded podcast: https://www.moodys.com/web/en/us/insights/podcasts/kyc-decoded.html
• Learn more about Moody’s: https://www.moodys.com
• Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Empowering Decision-Making in 2026 with Supply Chain Orchestration: https://bit.ly/3W7swlL
• WEBINAR- Inside Outdoor Cap’s Warehouse: How Voice Picking Elevated Daily Operations: https://bit.ly/49m4D1z
• WEBINAR- Supply Chain Strength: Strategies that Deliver in any Economy: https://bit.ly/4hqTnTH

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/integrated-risk-assessment-supply-chain-1501

The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Supply Chain gets spooky today as we delve into the Halloween supply chain and holiday toy logistics challenges. Welcome to The Buzz powered by AutoScheduler!

Hosts Scott Luton and Marty Parker welcome special guest Don HIcks, Founder & CEO of Optilogic to the show to discuss:

• The complexities of supply chain leadership
• Holiday toy logistics and Halloweenx supply chain dynamics
• The necessity for businesses to conduct stress tests and scenario modeling, particularly in light of recent disruptions and uncertainties in the global marketplace
• Valuable insights into the evolution of supply chain design, advocating for a mindset shift among leaders to embrace both planning and design as critical components of effective supply chain management

Join us as we underscore the importance of adaptability and forward-thinking in a landscape characterized by rapid change and unpredictability, and reflect on effective supply chain practices and strategies as we go into the holiday season and beyond.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Learn more about AutoScheduler: https://autoscheduler.ai
• With That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS25Oct 2025
• Mattel's disappointing Q3: https://bit.ly/MattelToysSC
• Have tariffs been lawfully applied? https://bit.ly/TariffRefunds
• Halloween Supply Chain: https://bit.ly/HalloweenSupplyChain
• AutoScheduler's FREE Warehouse Agent: https://autoscheduler.ai/agent-gate
• Don's recent address to his organization: https://optilogic.com/resources/post/why-we-do-what-we-do-a-ceos-take-on-purpose-design-and-real-impact
• Amazon Business: https://business.amazon.com
• Connect with Don Hicks: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-hicks-35575b/
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Empowering Decision-Making in 2026 with Supply Chain Orchestration: https://bit.ly/3W7swlL
• WEBINAR- Inside Outdoor Cap’s Warehouse: How Voice Picking Elevated Daily Operations: https://bit.ly/49m4D1z
• WEBINAR- Supply Chain Strength: Strategies that Deliver in any Economy: https://bit.ly/4hqTnTH

This episode is hosted by Scott Luton and Marty Parker, and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-holiday-supply-chain-dynamics-1500

The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott Luton welcomes Mike Griswold, Vice President Analyst at Gartner, for a conversation on leadership, innovation, and the future of supply chains. Mike shares how leading organizations are expanding beyond logistics to connect planning, customer experience, and innovation. Drawing on lessons from the Ryder Cup, he highlights the power of preparation, teamwork, and resilience; qualities that define both top athletes and successful supply chain leaders.

Mike also explores how AI can strengthen decision-making without replacing human expertise. He shares insights from Gartner’s Top 25 and previews the upcoming Planning Summits in London and Denver. From aligning people and processes to driving performance in uncertain times, this episode offers practical lessons for building smarter, more connected supply chains.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(01:28) Introducing the lightning round

(02:59) Ryder Cup and supply chain analogies

(09:36) Late-night snacks and drinks

(11:33) Alternative career paths

(13:18) Supply chain planning as a board game

(15:43) Buzzwords in supply chain

(19:58) Exploring VUCA and its impact

(21:04) Overhyped and underrated supply chain tech trends

(23:00) The evolution of shopping technology

(25:50) Gartner supply chain top 25 insights

(34:15) Supply chain leadership superpowers

(38:47) Gartner planning summits overview

Additional Links & Resources:

• Connect with Mike Griswold: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-griswold-6a68922/
• Learn more about Gartner: https://www.gartner.com/en
• Connect with Scott Luton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/
• Learn more about Supply Chain Now: https://supplychainnow.com
• Watch and listen to more Supply Chain Now episodes here: https://supplychainnow.com/program/supply-chain-now
• Subscribe to Supply Chain Now on your favorite platform: https://supplychainnow.com/join
• Work with us! Download Supply Chain Now’s NEW Media Kit: https://bit.ly/3XH6OVk
• WEBINAR- Optimizing End-to-End Logistics: Efficiency, Collaboration, and Innovation- https://bit.ly/4ml2TZh
• WEBINAR- Empowering Decision-Making in 2026 with Supply Chain Orchestration: https://bit.ly/3W7swlL
• WEBINAR- Inside Outdoor Cap’s Warehouse: How Voice Picking Elevated Daily Operations: https://bit.ly/49m4D1z
• WEBINAR- Supply Chain Strength: Strategies that Deliver in any Economy: https://bit.ly/4hqTnTH

This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and produced by Trisha Cordes, Joshua Miranda, and Amanda Luton. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/lightning-round-careers-buzzwords-planning-1499

The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.

For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at [email protected]

© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.